Question: Can I do online stock trading in US from another country being a foreigner?
I was in US for past 3 years, have social security number and maintained an account in an investing firm for online stock trading. Now I am leaving US. Will it be possible for me to maintain the account in US and continue online trading from another country?
Answer:
I'm pretty sure you're fine. But you're going to be subject to exchange rate risk. Which wouldn't be too bad right now because the dollar is one of the strongest currencys next to the yen and the japanese are going to try to weaken their currency because it's killing their exports.
If you end up not being able to trade U.S. stocks then research depository receipts.
It may not be easy. In some countries, like UK, brokers don't take on US clients (because of SEC reporting regime). Don't kniw about on-line.
If you have a SSN, you just have to file a US tax report every year and pay the taxes. There may be double taxation agreements between your country and the US to minimize your taxes but you will pay US taxes and you have to file every year on world income. If you don't file, the IRS will eventually seize your investments for taxes.